The Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee (NPCC) has demanded a thorough and impartial investigation into the deaths of nine people in Tuensang, while questioning the enforcement of the Nagaland Liquor Total Prohibition Act, 1989.
In a statement, the NPCC expressed grief over the deaths and said the incident raises serious questions about how suspected spurious liquor was able to enter the market and reach consumers in a state where liquor is prohibited.
The party demanded an investigation to identify the manufacturers, suppliers, transporters and sellers allegedly involved, along with stringent action against those found responsible.
It also called for an inquiry into possible negligence, failure or complicity on the part of the Excise and Prohibition Department, Police and other enforcement agencies.
The NPCC further demanded immediate ex-gratia compensation for the families of the deceased and appropriate assistance for those undergoing treatment.
It also called for public disclosure of forensic and laboratory findings and the outcome of the investigation, besides a comprehensive review of the implementation and enforcement of the Nagaland Liquor Total Prohibition Act, 1989.
“The Government cannot simply place the entire responsibility upon the victims,” the NPCC said, arguing that the circulation of prohibited and potentially poisonous liquor in a prohibition state raises questions of government accountability.
The party called upon the State Government to fix responsibility and take measures to prevent a recurrence of such an incident.
Meanwhile, Nagaland Pradesh Youth Congress president Herole Y also condemned the reported deaths and hospitalisations in Tuensang and urged the authorities to verify the reports and conduct a thorough investigation.
Herole called for action to identify the source, suppliers and network allegedly involved in the illegal liquor trade, and said the continued availability of illegal liquor despite prohibition raises questions about enforcement.
He also urged the government to strengthen enforcement, improve coordination among departments and ensure immediate medical support for affected persons.
“The people of Nagaland deserve effective enforcement and greater accountability,” Herole said.